Extreme makeover forging ahead; Navigation maps soon irrelevant

Construction workers Lucas Martin (left) and Nitai Stein continue work on the west side of the Center Building which will be renamed CLASS upon completion.Photo: August Frank

Construction workers Lucas Martin (left) and Nitai Stein continue work on the west side of the Center Building which will be renamed CLASS upon completion.Photo: August Frank

It’s news to no one that Lane’s Center Building is undergoing reconstruction. Who can miss the giant pieces of machinery, barricades, walkway labyrinths and noise dominating the LCC landscape? Construction workers too are as much a part of the Lane community these days as staff, teachers and students.

It may be hard to imagine what it will be like when construction is complete. If work stays on schedule, fall term will see the unveiling and fruits of all the planning, construction and disruption. Being able to get from point A to point B with ease once again is sure to be one of the most welcome experiences for the campus community.

There’s been no such thing as a straight line anywhere near the Center Building for months. Walkways have changed and changed again every time a different part of the building has become a focus for construction workers.

Finding food and beverages is another inconvenience people aren’t likely to miss.

An open food court with a variety of culinary offerings will replace the old cafeteria. There’ll be outdoor and indoor seating for patrons, and the fine dining venue, The Renaissance Room, will be completely transformed as well.

Once tucked away near the elevator in the cafeteria, the Renaissance Room, will have glass walls. People walking by will be able to see the diners inside. In addition to their view of the open public area, diners will also be able to seef the kitchen where their food is prepared.

The design, focused on learning, will give kitchen staff the experience of being viewed and even assessed while learning their culinary skills.

When construction is complete the building will not only have a have a new look, it will have a new name. In keeping with the theme of learning, the Center Building will be called the Center for Learning And Student Success.